A woman who purchased a collection of four dated Michigan cottages has revealed how she turned the separate properties into a luxurious “micro-compound” that is now on the market for $3.99 million.
Designer Kate Marker came across the cottages in 2023 when she was on the hunt for a unique property that had “character and charm,” but also the potential to be turned into a multistructure abode that could serve any number of purposes, as a one-of-a-kind private residence or a specialized rental.
So, she snapped up the foursome of homes in Union Pier for $1.28 million and set about transforming the somewhat rustic properties into a modern compound that elegantly blends contemporary luxury with cottagecore charm.
“We were really drawn to the idea of creating something that felt both intentional and welcoming, with a strong sense of community,” Marker tells Realtor.com®.
“I was looking for a property with character and charm, but also the opportunity to build a cohesive experience across multiple spaces. It needed to feel like a destination, while still being approachable and livable.”
Now known as The Townie Cottages Collection, the nearly half-acre property is located near the shore of Lake Michigan, just minutes from Townline Public Beach and Gordon Association Beach.
Having put her very personal stamp on the homes, Marker is now ready to move on to her next major project—and is offering up the compound to a new steward who is seeking a slice of lakeside luxury, either as a private retreat or as a business opportunity.
“This was always part of a larger creative process,” she said. “As much as I love this property, I am always looking ahead to the next opportunity to design and build something new. Letting this go creates space for that next chapter.”
Each of the residences within the collection (The Ivy, The Sage, The Moss, and The Fern) was renovated by Marker and now showcases her signature style, combining natural materials with elegant, modern finishes.
The turnkey seven-bedroom compound was designed to operate as a self-contained resort with an emphasis on communal outdoor living. Outdoor highlights include an in-ground pool, a pavilion with grilling station, and firepits for cooking s’mores and stargazing.
“The cottages are rooted in a relaxed, elevated cottage aesthetic, clean, layered, and timeless,” she says. “There is a mix of natural textures, soft neutrals, and subtle, nature inspired elements, but nothing feels overly styled. The goal was for each space to feel calm, warm, and effortlessly put together.”
Each residence boasts designer white oak kitchens, high-end appliances, fireplaces, dedicated dining spaces, hot tubs, and even outdoor showers. Some have king bedrooms with soaking tubs while others have built-in bunk beds and walk-in showers.
The compound was designed to accommodate up to 22 guests and could be used for multigenerational living or continue to be operated as a short-term rental investment.
“I see the next buyer as someone who values both design and experience, someone who understands the appeal of a turnkey, thoughtfully curated property,” she adds.
“It could be a lifestyle investment, a hospitality driven opportunity, or even a place for a large family to gather and use year-round. They will be drawn to the uniqueness of it, but also how seamless and ready it is. The work has already been done.”
An 880-square-foot pool house, subject to New Buffalo Township guidelines, has already been approved, offering even more equity-add potential.
And while the compound is made up of multiple different structures, Marker explains that they were specifically designed to encourage a sense of community, both through their layout and their cohesive coastal designs.
“One of the things that makes the property so special is how it encourages connection while still allowing for privacy,” Marker notes.
“There are shared outdoor gathering spaces and areas designed for slowing down, whether that is morning coffee outside or evenings spent with friends.
“At the same time, each cottage has its own hot tub, outdoor shower, and private deck, so it feels communal without ever feeling crowded. The central pool really anchors that balance.”
Marker believes that there is no end to the property’s potential uses—noting that it could even be transformed into a kind of boutique hotel, should the next owner have the right vision.
“There is a lot of flexibility,” she shares. “It can continue as a short-term rental concept, evolve into a boutique hospitality experience, or function as a private compound for family and friends. There is also potential for small events, retreats, or creative gatherings, which was always part of the vision.
“The location offers that rare balance of feeling like an escape while still being incredibly accessible. There is an ease and charm here that cannot really be manufactured. People come to slow down, and that feeling is lasting. Being so close to the beach and town adds to it. You can walk or quickly pop out for coffee, groceries, or a great meal without ever disrupting that relaxed pace.”
